Canon EF 24mm f1.4L USM II

Canon have updated the EF 24/1.4L USM to a new version, the Canon EF 24/1.4L USM II. The lens has been redesigned and now has 13 elements in 10 groups (the original version had 11 elements in 9 groups). Two aspheric elements are used which Canon claim result in better edge and corner sharpness.

The new EF 24/1.4L II USM also features a front element with a newly-designed anti-reflective SWC (Sub Wavelength Coating) on the rear. The SWC coating is superior to normal anti-reflection coatings and uses a fine structure that minimizes ghosting and flaring across the lens surface, regardless of the angle with which light enters or exits.

The new Canon EF 24/1.4L USM II is expected to be available in December 2008 at a price of around $1699

Canon Press Release on the Canon EF 24/1.4L USM II

The new EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens is the successor to Canon's EF 24mm f/1.4L USM professional wide-angle lens released in 1997. Targeting professional photographers, the new EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens has been introduced to address the advancements high-resolution digital SLR cameras with re-designed optics and use of a new anti-reflection lens coating called SWC (Sub-Wavelength Structure Coating) to minimize ghosting and flare. Features such as dustproof and waterproof construction that have been adopted make this a high-performance lens with specifications that respond to the demands of professional users. A welcome complement to the EOS 5D Mark II Digital SLR camera, the EF 24mm f/1.4L II USM lens is scheduled to be in stores this December at an estimated retail price of $1,699.

Canon EF 24mm f1.4 L USM Specifications